Swedish Waterways & Cities

Departed 25th Sep 201811 nightsSails from NewcastleBalmoralL1831

This cruise has now set sail.

Experience the very best of Sweden of this stunning journey of discovery, combining a selection of the country’s finest destinations with hours of spectacular scenic cruising along breathtaking waterways.

Newcastle’s close proximity to Scandinavia means you’ll only spend one day at sea before your Swedish adventure starts in style with an unforgettable exploration of the west-coast fjords. Charming villages, lush countryside and craggy coastlines will come into view as Balmoral navigates these narrow passages, presenting incredible views to enjoy from the comfort of your ship. The following morning it’s on to the cultural, classically Swedish city of Malmö. A number of attractions await you here, including Folkets Park, Malmöhus Slott Castle, the gothic-style Sankt Petri Church and the futuristic Turning Torso – Scandinavia’s tallest building. On the island of Gotland, UNESCO-listed Visby will offer a glimpse into Sweden’s fascinating Hanseatic history. Within the wonderful Old Town – protected by some of Europe’s best preserved medieval walls – awaits a number of merchants’ houses and magnificent churches, including the unmissable St Mary’s Cathedral and the ruins of St Nicolai and St Karin. You could also embark on a tour of Gotland, taking in pretty fishing villages and delightful towns dotted along the island’s picturesque coast. [ReadMore]

Heading north, Balmoral will sail between the rocky islands and islets of the Stockholm Archipelago to the capital, Stockholm. With time to explore in depth, you could take you pick of the collection of fantastic museums, including the Skansen Open-air Museum; wander around the historic Gamla Stan district at your leisure and witness the changing of the guard at the Royal Palace; and even delve into Sweden’s world-famous pop culture at ABBA: The Museum. There will also be time to take to city’s waters and see the sights from a different perspective on a relaxing boat tour. Another scenic cruise of the awe-inspiring Stockholm Archipelago will be followed by a call into Gothenburg. A day in the cultural second city will provide a perfect end to your time in Sweden, with chances to enjoy a sightseeing boat tour along the 17th century canals; stop by the Maritiman, the world’s largest floating ship museum; and venture down the busy main street, Avenyn. Älvsborg Fortress and the beautiful botanical gardens are well worth a visit too.